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Letter "J" Glossary

jamb — The vertical elements framing the sides of a door (portal) or window. In later Romanesque and Gothic architecture, the jambs of the portals are often arranged in an extended design that spreads outward (splayed) and decorated with sculpture called jamb figures usually representing Old and New Testament figures and Christian saints.

jamb figure — Sculptured figures located on the jambs, or vertical side elements, of a portal or doorway. In medieval architecture, jamb figures usually represent Old and New Testament figures or Christian saints.

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